Classic Sweet Navy Bean Pie with Warm Spices and Buttery Crust

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Cuisine

American

Servings

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

50 minutes

Calories

360

Bean pie is a beloved dessert rooted in African-American Muslim culinary tradition, especially within the Nation of Islam. A surprising yet delicious alternative to pumpkin or sweet potato pie, it uses navy beans as its base, offering a smooth and subtly earthy filling kissed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Though many first-timers are skeptical, one bite of this creamy, sweet, custardy pie makes a believer out of anyone.

Unlike what its name might suggest, bean pie doesn’t taste “beany.” When puréed and blended with warm spices, eggs, butter, and sugar, the beans create a velvety custard that bakes into something deeply comforting and nostalgic. Traditionally served during holidays, religious celebrations, or as a year-round soul food staple, bean pie is a cultural icon that deserves a place at every dessert table.

Image of Classic Sweet Navy Bean Pie with Warm Spices and Buttery Crust

Ingredients

1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup cooked navy beans (or canned, rinsed and drained)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup evaporated milk
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch of salt

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Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan.
In a food processor or blender, purée the navy beans with evaporated milk until smooth.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and spices.
Stir in the bean mixture until fully combined and smooth.
Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the centre is set and a knife inserted comes out clean.
Cool completely before slicing. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
per serving: Calories; 360

Amount/Serving % Daily Value

Fat: 16 grams; 20%
Saturated Fat: 8 grams; 40%
Cholesterol: 95 milligrams; 32%
Sodium: 170 milligrams; 7%
Carbs: 49 grams; 18%
Protein: 6 grams
Sugar: 24 grams
Fiber: 3 grams; 11%

Tips for Sweet Navy Bean Pie

Use fully cooked navy beans — canned works great if drained and rinsed.
A food processor makes the filling extra smooth.
Blind-bake the crust for 5 minutes if you want a crisper base.
Let the pie cool fully before slicing — it firms up as it cools.
Adjust spices to taste — cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are traditional.
Avoid overbaking or the texture will be dry and grainy.
Evaporated milk gives richness — don’t substitute with regular milk.
A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavour slightly.
This pie freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Top with whipped cream or dust with powdered sugar for serving.

Serve It With Suggestions

Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche
Hot spiced tea or coffee
Candied pecans on top
Warmed with vanilla ice cream
Sweet potato mash for a soul food dessert spread
Sliced bananas or caramel drizzle
A glass of sweet Riesling or dessert wine
Holiday spiced cider
Cinnamon-dusted pastry stars on top for decoration
A side of honey-drizzled cornbread

FAQ's

Q: Does bean pie taste like beans?
A: Not at all! When puréed and spiced, the beans taste like a custardy, lightly nutty filling.

Q: Can I use canned beans?
A: Yes, just rinse and drain them well before blending.

Q: What kind of beans should I use?
A: Navy beans are traditional for their mild flavor and smooth texture.

Q: Is this pie vegan?
A: No, but you can experiment with dairy-free milk, egg replacers, and vegan butter to adapt it.

Q: How long will bean pie last?
A: It keeps in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make it in advance?
A: Absolutely — it actually tastes better chilled the next day.

Q: What’s the origin of bean pie?
A: It’s popular in African-American Muslim communities and the Nation of Islam, introduced as a wholesome dessert alternative.

Q: Can I use sweetened condensed milk?
A: It’s not traditional, but some versions do — reduce the sugar if you use it.

Q: Can I use pre-made pie crust?
A: Yes, store-bought works fine, though homemade adds extra flavour.

Q: Can I make mini versions?
A: Yes — use a muffin tin with small pie crusts and reduce bake time.

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Classic Sweet Navy Bean Pie with Warm Spices and Buttery Crust